1998 Ranger conversion
 

Hi, I am new to diesel conversions, i have read a little bit about them, and i am interested in doing one. I have a 1998 Ford Ranger 2.5 liter 4 cylinder. I was wondering if you guys have any tips, engine suggestions, that kind of stuff. I don't care that much about speed, as long as I get over 55mph I'm okay with it. I'm looking for an engine with a lot of torque and decent fuel eco. Thanks guys.

Have you checked out the 4BT Cummins engines? They will give you decent power and will not damage the frame. I know there are other good choices out there too but not familiar with the others. I would stick to a 4 cylinder diesel, because anything bigger will weight about as much as that truck does.

The truck you are starting with is a great platform. The 4bt is a good engine but very heavy and you would need to switch to a big ttruck transmission.

Other options would be the kubota , tdi vw and I believe the Perkins from the older rangers.

I have no experience with the last two. There are many guys that have swapped the kubotas into vehicles and are very happy with them and I believe most are seeing high 30s mpg.

I will let them chime in

Thanks
Ken
SPMACHINING

Thanks, I'll look into it.

I looked at the Cummins engine, it seemed like a good choice, has anybody ever used the kubota v3800?

If I could find a v3800 I would snatch one up in a heart beat. The easiest Kubota to find is the v2203 and generally can be had for 1200 or so.

Once turboed they will make plenty of power to propel a truck of your size nicely

Thanks, do you know what turbo is the best to use on the v2203? And engines aren't really a problem for me, me dad owns an equipment rental company and has plenty of spare engines, I am really looking for at least 200lb/ft at peak basically

Its not hard to avg (from what I have seen) 300ish ftlbs. out of a 4cylinder diesel.

Do you know what engine? Or is that the average? I can't find that many specs on the kubota engines.

Here is some specs from a couple engines.

Kubota Engine America - V3800-CR-TI-E4B

4BT (3.9L) Cummins Specs & Information

http://www.konekesko.com/Global/Kubo...2203-M-E3B.pdf